Walter S. Schmitz

Walt was born December 4, 1930 in Joliet, IL, the son of Walter and Mildred Grendheim Schmitz. His parents, his step-father Moxie Crews of Naples, his brother Gerald (Beulah) Schmitz of Meridosia and his sister Evelyn (Tony) Sitar of Joliet preceded him in death.

He married Doris Ellerman on June 12, 1955 at the Trinity Lutheran Church, Rural Bluffs, IL by the late Rev. John Deterding. Walt was a longtime member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church where he served as an usher for more than 50 years. He was a volunteer at the Grace Food Pantry.

He was an avid walker and could often be seen walking the streets of Jerome. He retired in 1994 from Growmark Inc. after many years of service.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Doris; his two sons: Steve (Marilyn) Schmitz of Springfield and Mike (LuAnn) Schmitz of Rochester; three grandsons: Hunter and Austin Schmitz of Springfield and Allen Schmitz of Rochester. There are numerous nieces' nephews and cousins.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bisch Funeral Home West 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd. where the family will receive friends from 5-7 pm Wednesday June 18, 2014. Additional visitation will be from 9:30 am Thursday June 19, 2014 at Our Savior's Lutheran Church 2645 Old Jacksonville Rd. until time of funeral services there at 10:30 am Thursday. Rev's Daniel Eggold and Joshua Traxel officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Ridge Cemetery.

Those who wish may direct memorial contributions in his memory to Our Savior's Lutheran Church and School 2645 Old Jacksonville Rd. Springfield, IL 62704